Terra cotta ornaments by Ashik Hasan

Sattar said, "After the establishment of a separate department for pottery, students and artists of this department have done many experimental works. Ashik has come up with the innovative idea of making colourful ornaments out of clay. In his work, one sees the influence of the traditional ornaments worn by indigenous people."

Appreciating Ashik's ideas and artistic application of colours on ornaments, Farida Zaman said, "Clay ornaments are the symbol of our culture. This exhibition displays the bright and colourful ornaments that are much in demand by stylish women. If Ashik had used the natural terra cotta colour, the ornaments would have had a exclusive look. However, I am sure that the exhibition will be successful."

Ashik has been working on the terra cotta ornaments for the last five years. Ashik says, "After many experiments and encouragement from senior artistes, I finally decided to hold an exhibition." With an eye on contemporary taste, Ashik used bright colours and gave uncommon shapes to his ornaments.

Landscapes and geometric forms are seen in Ashik's ornaments. As he says, "I wanted to bring in an element of nature and portray it in my designs. For example, I have imitated the shape of the three-armed net that the fishermen use in rural areas. I have designed some traditional ornaments of different areas. I have made a traditional ornament called Lakkhishora that the potters of Manikganj usually make."

In making the ornaments Ashik has used clay, metal, oil colour and stones. The ornaments were moderately priced. Ashik said, "Like many designers I prefer not to reproduce thousands of copies of an ornament. That is why my ornaments are exclusive."

The exhibition will be open to the public from 10am to 8pm till September 14.